Issue #1 | Grand Pacific Tours | June 2020
NEW ZEALAND AWAITS
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HAERE MAI NEW ZEALAND
ha·e·re·mai Mãori welcome
Literally ‘come over’
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KIA ORA
THE KEA IS NATIVE TO NEW ZEALAND, THE WORLD’S ONLY ALPINE PARROT, AND ONE OF THE MOST INTELLIGENT BIRDS. 4
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GRAND PACIFIC TOURS AND FIRST CLASS HOLIDAYS WELCOME YOU TO NEW ZEALAND Throughout our 24 years of New Zealand coach touring, Grand Pacific Tours has faced many hurdles including the domestic airline strike, SARS, the Global Financial Crisis and the devastating effects of the Christchurch & Kaikoura earthquakes. COVID-19 will by far be our biggest challenge, but we are determined to face this unprecedented period of uncertainty with confidence. After months of isolation, travellers are planning where they’ll visit next and there’s no better time than now to consider our neighbours in New Zealand. New Zealand is a unique destination with something for everyone. You can go from one side of the country to the next and think you’ve travelled through several. The jaw-dropping landscapes are unmatched. It really is a world in miniature. We’re excited to launch this online magazine to inspire and help invigorate your New Zealand travel dreams. New Zealand is a magical place, full of beautiful scenery, food, history and culture; all delivered by passionate people who will take you on a journey and give you a safe and memorable holiday when you are ready to travel again. Peter Harding Managing Director Grand Pacific Tours
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Dream Now, Travel Later New Zealand, a world in miniature
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Elevate your expectationz The Benefits of Coach Touring
30 DESTINATION Rotorua Feel the Spirit Te Puia and Skyline Rotorua
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Behind the wheel with . . . Ultimate Coach Captain Paul Campion
36 DESTINATION Queenstown The adventure continues
20 SPOTLIGHT Top of the South Island Tour A great reason to come back
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TSS Earnslaw and Walter Peak Station
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Great Kiwi Firsts People and events that shaped NZ
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Homestyle Recipes from New Zealand’s iconic Edmonds Cookery Book
42 FOCUS
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Ultimate Small Group Touring
The iconic Kiwi Tea Towel
Business class on wheels
They’re more than just a popular souvenir
Exclusive to Grand Pacific Tours
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NEW ZEALAND
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Dream Now, Travel Later
NEW ZEALAND IS ONE OF THE FIRST PLACES IN THE WORLD TO SEE THE SUN. AS IT RISES OVER AOTEAROA, THE LANDSCAPES COME ALIVE AND AWAKEN THE SENSES.
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DREAM NOW, TRAVEL LATER
T
he local people, guardians of the land, will welcome you not just as guests but as Whãnau (family). See the natural wonders through
their eyes as they share with you this extraordinary part of the world. Whether it’s the call of the native Tui bird, the sheep farmer rounding his herd or the gentle waves that break at the shore, the people and natural landscapes work in sync creating a serene balance and way of life. From the burnt orange colours of Autumn, to the sweet pastels that bloom through Spring, the colours and sights of this precious land are unbounded by beauty. The dramatic landscapes of the South Island are testament to this. To the north is Christchurch and the Canterbury region, full of patchwork farmlands and wine regions. To the south is Fiordland. Milford Sound is well known for its dramatic mountain peaks carved by glaciers during the ice ages and described as the ‘eighth wonder of the world’.
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MILFORD SOUND IS WELL KNOWN FOR ITS DRAMATIC MOUNTAIN PEAKS CARVED BY GLACIERS DURING THE ICE AGES AND DESCRIBED AS THE ‘EIGHTH WONDER OF THE WORLD’.
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DREAM NOW, TRAVEL LATER
On the East Coast become
In juxtaposition, the North Island offers
acquainted with Dunedin and the
the country’s best in people, culture and
Otago Peninsula. The prevalent Scottish
history.
heritage, Victorian and Edwardian
The European colonisation and Mãori
architecture of Dunedin make it a unique
culture is an important lesson for all to
hidden gem.
understand in the Bay of Islands, a sandy
Perhaps most magnificent of them
beaches and blue skies destination.
all is what lies to the West. The mighty
South of cosmopolitan Auckland,
Southern Alps, stretching as far as the
known as the ‘city of sails’, is the cultural
eye can see.
and geothermal wonderland of Rotorua.
You’ll feel small in your surroundings as
There is a serene relationship between
you marvel at the wide-open spaces of
people and nature. The geothermal heat
this untouched paradise.
underfoot can be used to cook meals
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THE NORTH ISLAND OFFERS THE COUNTRY’S BEST IN PEOPLE, CULTURE AND HISTORY.
for families, while the mineral waters are
yourself in arts, culture and some of the
used to relax and rejuvenate the body.
finest food and wine around. Set on the
Then there’s the lesser known coastal
edge of a stunning harbour surrounded
city of Napier, situated in Hawke’s Bay.
by rolling green hills, Wellington paints a
Beautifully preserved 1930’s architecture
picture of postcard perfection.
is Napier’s special point of difference.
No matter where you visit in New
Stripped Classical, Spanish Mission and
Zealand, you are sure to be greeted with
Art Deco styles all contribute to its 1930’s
a friendly ‘Kia ora’. From the stories of the
film set façade.
old Kauri trees that have seen hundreds
Your trip to New Zealand isn’t
of years and passersby, to the vibrant
complete without visiting the nation’s
colours in a piece of handcrafted jade
capital, Wellington, offering the very
– every experience you have in New
best of this extraordinary land. Immerse
Zealand will be infinitely beautiful. HAERE MAI NEW ZEALAND
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ELEVATE YOUR EXPECTATIONZ
Benefits of Coach Touring
G
rand Pacific Tours is a New Zealand Coach Holiday Specialist, providing a comprehensive range of all inclusive, value for money holidays whilst offering a highly professional and personalised service to
thousands of travellers every year. A Grand Pacific Tours coach tour is more than a holiday – it is a chance to see, feel and learn about the people, places and the history of a unique part of the world you have chosen to explore. From the time you arrive in New Zealand a friendly smile awaits. Our professional crew will share their teachings and knowledge ensuring you learn as you continue your journey with like-minded travellers.
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SIT BACK AND RELAX Tour in armchair comfort, knowing the disappointment of overlooking hidden locations or taking a wrong turn is removed.
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BENEFITS OF COACH TOURING
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COMFORTABLE, MODERN COACHES Featuring panoramic windows, reclining seats, air conditioning, two door access and more. Take in the breathtaking views from every seat with a daily seat rotation.
3 EXPERIENCED CREW The professional and friendly crew will provide fun and informative commentary, showcasing facts and figures, myths and the passion they hold for New Zealand.
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ICONIC INCLUSIONS AND VALUE FOR MONEY Coach tours ensure you visit all the ‘must see’ locations and iconic attractions plus unique hidden gems, neatly packaged up at an unbeatable price.
MAKE NEW FRIENDS Share your holiday experiences with like-minded people and make a network of wonderful new friends. HAERE MAI NEW ZEALAND
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TAKE FIVE
BEHIND THE WHEEL WITH
Paul Campion The Ultimate Small Group Tours Coach Captain talks life on the road, his favourite New Zealand destination and entertaining travellers.
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How long have you been a Coach Captain with Grand Pacific Tours? 8 years. The first 2 years were on North Island tours and then 6 years as an Ultimate Small Group Tour Coach Captain. What do you enjoy about it the most? Being at the forefront of the New Zealand tourism industry to create wonderful lifetime memories for my guests from around the world. I get to drive one of the most amazing coaches in the country, staying in fabulous hotels and working alongside a wonderful team involved in hospitality. I try not to tell too many people what I do otherwise they will want to take over my position! How many passengers have you driven with GPT? It is difficult to give an exact amount but approximately 2750 passengers based on the number of tours completed. What’s your favourite New Zealand destination? Every place we visit has its own special qualities and uniqueness, but the one place that stands out for me is the Bay of Islands. Not only is the coastal scenery spectacular, the early European history showcasing the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and the quaint town of Russell as well as Paihia and Kerikeri make this destination special. The Bay of Islands holds special memories for me as I have spent many happy family boating holidays there. What is one favourite New Zealand fact you tell your travellers? New Zealand has no snakes, they never existed nor were they introduced. No bears, wolves, mountain lions, or crocodiles. You can wander around the New Zealand countryside or go for a swim without the fear of being bitten, attacked or poisoned so therefore a very safe country to travel. HAERE MAI NEW ZEALAND
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SOMETHING DIFFERENT
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TOP SOUTH ISLAND OF THE
TOUR
A G R E AT R E A S O N T O C O M E B A C K O V E R
If you’ve travelled to New Zealand’s South Island, you know the opportunities are endless for experiencing award-winning food and wine, breathtaking scenery, and stunning natural landscapes. Peter Harding, Grand Pacific Tours Managing Director, has created the perfect tour for those longing to come back over, visiting several iconic regions each offering something different.
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SOMETHING DIFFERENT
T
HE 11 DAY TOP OF THE SOUTH ISLAND TOUR HAS BEEN DESIGNED FOR TRAVELLERS WHO ENJOY THE OUTDOORS, LOVE FOOD AND WINE AND ARE KEEN TO GET OFF THE MAIN
ROADS AND EXPERIENCE SOME OF THE SOUTH ISLAND’S NATIVE WILDLIFE AND NATURAL BEAUTY. Q&A with Peter Harding discussing his inspiration to create a coach holiday that has never been offered before.
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THE SEA BURSTS THROUGH VERTICAL BLOWHOLES HEAVILY ERODING THE LIMESTONE AREA, CREATING PANCAKE ROCKS NEAR PUNAKAIKI.
I’ve long loved the scenic hideaways and Kiwi holiday havens of the northern half of the South Island. So, I’m How does your new
thrilled, after two years of development with the local
itinerary raise the
tourism experts, to launch a circular touring route that’s
bar for New Zealand
different to any other itinerary.
coach holidays?
Not only does the Top of the South Island Tour extensively explore the best of the West Coast, Nelson, Marlborough and Canterbury, it is a marked departure in style from the traditional coach tour. This tour responds to travellers who enjoy the outdoors, love food and wine and want a more active experience of New Zealand’s amazing environment and, while there’s nothing too strenuous, a big point of difference is the included outdoor activities, such as four short scenic walks and opportunities for wildlife encounters. HAERE MAI NEW ZEALAND
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SOMETHING DIFFERENT
TAKE A SHORT WALK THROUGH THE HARDWOOD FOREST LEADING TO A SWING BRIDGE WHICH CROSSES THE HOKITIKA RIVER.
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Travellers often underappreciate how demanding the South Island’s highways are - frequently hilly, windy and Why do you recommend touring
single lane with few passing spots. New Zealand makes the ideal coach holiday
New Zealand by
destination because every passenger gets to sit back
coach?
and enjoy the ever-picturesque scenery from their elevated seat, while an expert driver safely navigates each journey. Coach tours remove the hassle of researching and booking complicated itineraries and add value to your travels with expert commentary. And when we stop at a cellar door to sample admired wines or beers, there’s always a designated driver!
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SOMETHING DIFFERENT
THE KAIKOURA PENINSULA IS KNOWN FOR ITS STUNNING OCEAN VIEWS AND MARINE WILDLIFE.
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Grand Pacific Tours specialises in New Zealand and I’m confident we offer market-leading itineraries and What should we
product. We regularly schedule two-night stays to
consider when
ensure our passengers experience the best of every
choosing a coach
destination, guided by a fine team of Coach Captains
tour operator?
and Tour Leaders. We operate modern coaches with reclining seats, panoramic windows, two door access and a restroom. Most importantly, there are no hidden extras on a Grand Pacific tour as we include everything from a personalised Meet and Greet and airport transfers in New Zealand, to sightseeing and prepaid attractions, most meals and the best quality hotels.
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TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
THE NEW ROUTE CIRCLES THE TOP OF THE SOUTH ISLAND FROM CHRISTCHURCH, A FIRST FOR NEW ZEALAND COACH TOURS. THESE ARE THE OUTDOOR HAVENS THAT KIWI’S THEMSELVES LOVE TO HOLIDAY IN.
A: Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise Set off on your Nature Cruise from the historic French Village of Akaroa for the chance to see the rare Hector’s Dolphins and other marine life.
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B: Hokitika Gorge This vivid, turquoise glacial river, surrounded by lush bush is well worth a visit and is even more impressive in real life!
C: Punakaiki Pancake Rocks Gaze in wonder at the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes, where columns of water shoot skyward from rocks that resemble giant stacks of pancakes.
Contact First Class Holidays for more information.
D: Abel Tasman Walk and Barbecue Cruise Walk along the golden sand beaches and cruise the sheltered coves of the Abel Tasman National Park followed by a delicious barbeque lunch.
E: Queen Charlotte Sound Dinner Cruise Take in the natural beauty of the Queen Charlotte Sound with an exclusive dinner cruise featuring local salmon, Greenshell Mussels and Cloudy Bay Clams, matched with a spectacular Marlborough wine.
F: Cloudy Bay Estate Named after a body of water explorer Captain James Cook came across during his voyage in 1770, you will sample some of Marlborough’s finest wine amongst the barrels at Cloudy Bay Estate.
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NORTH ISLAND
Rotorua SITUATED 3 HOURS SOUTH OF AUCKLAND, LIES THE GEOTHERMAL HEART OF NZ’S NORTH ISLAND – ROTORUA. THERE ARE FEW OTHER PLACES IN THE WORLD WHERE GEOTHERMAL PHENOMENA ARE SO PREVALENT IN EVERYDAY LIFE.
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ature and culture strike a perfect balance, creating a unique wonderland that must be experienced at least once in your life.
The unforgettable smell of sulphur, clouds of steam
and volcanic activity are a natural part of life in Rotorua. From safe distances, you’ll observe crater lakes, bubbling mud pools and active geysers that send columns of steam bursting into the atmosphere regularly. Põhutu is the largest active geyser in the southern hemisphere, erupting once or twice every hour and reaching heights of 30 metres (100 feet). 30
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Feel the Spirit The mineral waters of Rotorua have long been used for healing ailments and spa treatments designed to relax and restore. Many of the spa treatments use indigenous herbs and muds, combined with traditional MĂŁori massage techniques. Visiting a spa is a must-do whilst in Rotorua. The region boasts breathtaking scenery including 18 beautiful lakes, lush flora and redwood forests - all shaped by the volcanic activity. These wonders are cared for by the Te Arawa people who have been welcoming visitors to the region for well over 150 years. HAERE MAI NEW ZEALAND
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TE PUIA ROTORUA
YOU WILL ENCOUNTER INCREDIBLE EARTH FORCES AT TE PUIA, THE CENTRE FOR NEW ZEALAND’S MÃORI CULTURE AND GEOTHERMAL WONDERS.
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Wonderland FEEL ENRICHED BY A VISIT TO TE PUIA, ROTORUA’S CENTRE FOR MÃORI CULTURE AND GEOTHERMAL WONDERS.
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ncounter bubbling mud pools and
schools and learn how the Mãori people
geysers sending columns of steam
use native plants for food, medicine and
bursting into the atmosphere. See
handcrafts.
how the boiling water is still used for
The architecture tells stories and
cooking with fresh ingredients wrapped
displays the stunning artistry of the
in woven baskets and lowered into
Mãori people and culture. Marvel at
the ground, cooking the food with
the intricate details of the Marae – a
geothermal heat and infusing delicious
traditional gathering place for Mãori
earthy flavors.
tribes. Te Puia’s Rotowhio Marae is
Te Puia is home to the New Zealand
purpose-built and contains beautiful
Mãori Arts and Crafts Institute which was
carved buildings where guests are
established in the 1920s to preserve the
welcomed and entertained.
Mãori culture. Talented students from
With an onsite Kiwi Conservation
around New Zealand learn the art of
Centre, you may also spot the
carving, weaving and other traditional
extraordinary and endangered Kiwi bird
arts under the guidance of master
and learn how they are being protected
craftspersons. Wander through the
in the wild. HAERE MAI NEW ZEALAND
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SKYLINE ROTORUA
more to enjoy there’s
B
egin your day with a tranquil Gondola ride up Mt Ngongotaha complete with spectacular views
overlooking Lake Rotorua, the city and steaming geothermal landscapes. The 8-seater Gondola cabins give plenty of viewing pleasure along the 900-metre long Doppelmayr cableway system. Once at the Skyline Rotorua Complex, head to the Stratosphere Restaurant for a delicious breakfast full of fresh, locally sourced produce. Choices are endless
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SKYLINE ROTORUA
FEEL ENRICHED BY A VISIT TO TE PUIA, ROTORUA’S CENTRE FOR MĀORI CULTURE AND GEOTHERMAL WONDERS.
with traditional hot cooked foods and
luge has a unique braking and steering
fresh grains. Sit back, relax and enjoy the
system where riders push forward on the
breathtaking 180-degree
handlebars to release
views outside.
and accelerate and pull
After a filling breakfast,
back to slow down or
test your skills on the track
stop. Jump on the track
with some fast-paced
with your travel buddy
luge fun, a world-famous
and show them who’s
attraction which opened
boss!
in 1986. The part go-cart, part toboggan is
On your way out, pass by the Jelly Belly Concept Store and Art
powered by gravity with the rider in
Gallery to refuel before making your way
control of speed and direction. The
back down Mt Ngongotaha. HAERE MAI NEW ZEALAND
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SOUTH ISLAND
QUEENSTOWN SET ON THE STUNNING SHORES O F C R Y S TA L - C L E A R L A K E WA K AT I P U , Q U E E N S T O W N I S L O C AT E D I N T H E S O U T H - W E S T E R N , O TA G O R E G I O N O F NEW ZEALAND’S SOUTH ISLAND.
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urrounded by picturesque mountain ranges including The Remarkables, Cecil Peak, Walter Peak, Ben Lomond and Queenstown Hill, it is truly
one of nature’s finest wonders. The town is commonly known for its thrill-seeking adventure sports, but also a place to indulge in spa treatments and boutique shopping. The scenic waterfront provides stunning scenery and a bubbling atmosphere, with an abundance of cafes and restaurants including a long list of gourmet dining experiences.
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The adventure continues
A popular holiday destination for all seasons. Winter brings crisp, bluesky days; spring retains the snow but blooms into longer, warmer days; summer offers sunshine and long twilights, and autumn a burst of brilliant red and gold. Queenstown is one of New Zealand’s most exciting and charming destinations, the natural beauty and unique energy of the region create the perfect backdrop for adventure, discovery and rejuvenation.
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TSS EARNSLAW QUEENSTOWN
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he is the only remaining commercial passenger-carrying coal-fired steamship in the southern
hemisphere making it one of the most unique experiences in the world. The Edwardian vintage twin screw steamer was commissioned by New Zealand Railways to service the communities around Lake Wakatipu. Her maiden voyage was on 18 October 1912, the same year as the ill-fated Titanic. Known as ‘The Lady of the Lake’, she
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THE
L ADY LAKE OF THE
T H E T S S E A R N S L AW I S N E W Z E A L A N D ’ S M O S T I C O N I C B OA T A N D A N I N T E G R A L PA R T O F Q U E E N S T O W N ’ S P I O N E E R I N G H I S T O R Y.
provided an essential link between the
taking travellers on a leisurely 90-minute
isolated farming communities along the
cruise across the picturesque Lake
lake and the outside world. At 48-metres
Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country
long, she was the biggest boat on the
Station.
lake and carried passengers, sheep, cattle, mail and supplies. Nearly de-commissioned in 1968, the
Inside, explore the over one hundred years of history, including a visit to the engine room to see the giant steam
TSS Earnslaw was bought by a family run
engines at work. View the collection of
tourism company, Real Journeys, and
historical photos in the mini museum,
was lovingly restored to near original
check out the bridge and enjoy a
condition. The vessel is now featured as
singalong by the pianist with your iconic
one of Queenstown’s main attractions,
song book. HAERE MAI NEW ZEALAND
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WALTER PEAK HIGH COUNTRY STATION QUEENSTOWN
HIGH COUNTRY TASTE ON THE SOUTH-WESTERN SHORELINE OF LAKE WAKATIPU SITS THE WALTER PEAK HIGH COUNTRY STATION, A FULLY FUNCTIONING SHEEP FARM AND NATIVE WONDERLAND.
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troll through the beautiful lakeside
is a way of life. Visitors to the farm get
gardens and experience the best of
an authentic taste of this lifestyle and
New Zealand’s high-country cuisine
breathe in the fresh country air.
at The Colonel’s Homestead, featuring
Learn about the farm and the Walter
a menu of seasonal, fresh and locally
Peak land restoration project to restore
sourced food. An award-winning dining
native trees, then watch the remarkable
experience like no other.
skills of sheep shearers and their farm
The Colonel’s Homestead was originally built in 1908, then carefully
dogs as they demonstrate working the land from the new amphitheatre.
rebuilt in 1977 after an accidental fire.
The fresh air and calming sounds of
Its colonial architecture and sweeping
nature are what makes this experience
grounds evoke the elegance of a
so authentic and memorable. With a
bygone era.
full belly and camera roll, reboard the
With agriculture as one of New Zealand’s biggest industries, farming 40
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TSS Earnslaw for a relaxing cruise back to Queenstown.
EXPERIENCE THE BEST OF NZ’S HIGH COUNTRY CUISINE AT THE COLONEL’S HOMESTEAD. AN AWARD-WINNING DINING EXPERIENCE LIKE NO OTHER.
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There comes a time in our lives when we begin to prefer quality over quantity and crave more comfort and style on our holidays. Enjoy luxurious accommodation, fabulous cuisine and impeccable service on a small group tour to remember.
ULTIM 42
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New Zealand Small Group Touring
Exclusive to Grand Pacific Tours
MATE HAERE MAI NEW ZEALAND
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Ultimate Small Group Touring is designed for the discerning traveller who appreciates the highest level of comfort, service and quality without compromise.
BUSINESS CLASS ON WHEELS
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stablished over ten years ago, these tours provide a whole new level of VIP travel in small group holidays.
Enjoy a unique experience on board one
of only five purpose-built state-of-the-art coaches, normally seating 48 travellers that have been configured to feature only 20 luxury leather seats with adjustable headrest and calf support. Every passenger has their own window seat, allowing you to sit back and enjoy
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panoramic views as you explore the
These experiences are all delivered by
breathtaking and diverse country of
our Ultimate Coach Captains, carefully
New Zealand.
selected for their professionalism and
The distinctive GPT service includes
attention to detail, they are there from
unique dining experiences such as a
start to finish to ensure a personal touring
gourmet dinner at Walter Peak
experience.
Homestead in Queenstown, the comfort
Travellers enjoy unparalleled comfort
of hand selected boutique hotels with
and an exclusive New Zealand experience
extensive guest facilities and bespoke
best summed up by past travellers who
attractions such as the Milford Sound
declare they will never travel on a normal
Nature Cruise.
coach again. HAERE MAI NEW ZEALAND
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EXTENSIVE ONBOARD FEATURES
20 luxury leather fully reclining seats with adjustable headrest
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Panoramic viewing, air conditioning, seat belts and onboard restroom
Wood grain timber tray table with built-in cup holder
Seat side personal storage providing easy access to your travel bag
Contact First Class Holidays for more information.
“WOW! What an amazing trip. New Zealand is beautiful but to see it via that stunning coach was something we will never forget. It is the only way to go! Linda, our driver, was an excellent ‘friend’ to all. What a wealth of knowledge interspersed with her own life skills and experiences. How she handled that vehicle in often tight spaces, was a true gift. What were the highlights? Too many to list just one or two. The things we got to see and do, we could never have done on our own and would never have learned so much about New Zealand. The friendships, sights, meals and experiences and fun of it all will remain with us forever”. - A. & R. W. (Tasmania) Past travellers
Personal audio control unit with multiple music channels and a complimentary set of headphones
Stylish centre galley area equipped with refrigerated drinking fountain and fridge units
Complimentary daily onboard Wi-Fi allowance
Access to daily newspapers and range of glossy magazines
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PEOPLE AND EVENTS THAT SHAPED NEW ZEALAND
WRITTEN BY RESPECTED, RETIRED JOURNALIST AND GRAND YEARS EDITOR, FRANK MORRIS.
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IN THE LATE 1800s, US AUTHOR MARK TWAIN WAS PERHAPS THE FIRST INTERNATIONAL LITERARY LUMINARY TO VISIT AND PUBLICISE NEW ZEALAND.
Paradise Found
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wain found the “land of superb scenery” irresistible. He wrote about “the snowy grandeurs, the mighty
glaciers, and beautiful lakes”. The fiords were, he wrote, “wonder rivals” to those found in Norway and Alaska. After his historic sojourn, Twain expostulated that “our stay has been too brief; still, we are not unthankful for the glimpse which we have had of it”. HAERE MAI NEW ZEALAND
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Thomas Cook and Son is believed to be the first travel agent to cash in on New Zealand as an exotic travel destination. The first governmentbacked tourism promotion organisation, The Tourist and Publicity Department, was established in 1901. Through its New Zealand and international network, the department’s role was to promote New Zealand to the world. Now called Tourism New Zealand, it is reputed to be the oldest bureau of its kind in both hemispheres. As in the case of Mark Twain, the editors of Time magazine were overwhelmed by the visually stunning beauty of New Zealand. In its first cover story on New Zealand in 1977, Time rhapsodised about the country being “a photographer’s paradise . . . one of the world’s most beautiful nations”. The magazine informed its global readership of the “extravagant” beauty of the country: “The velvet green hills and valleys; white snowdraped peaks; and streams with trout as big as man’s arm”. This South Pacific paradise attracts millions of international visitors annually. 50
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Sheep, sheep and more sheep!
At the last count there were about 27.4 million domesticated sheep of various breeds ensconced in New Zealand’s rich pasturelands.
and meadows are covered in grasses and clover that “have been cultivated to such a high level of nourishment that a single acre will support one dairy cow to ten sheep”, noted one report. There is a mix of different breeds to be found. Some of the popular ones include the white-faced, hornless Corriedale, developed in New Zealand for its wool and meat. It has bright, soft fleeces and produces good quality lambs. The hornless Lincoln, reportedly the
C
worlds largest sheep, is also found in Australia and North and South America, harles Bidwell is credited as
it produces long, short wool that is mainly
being the first to establish sheep
used in the manufacture of carpets.
farming in New Zealand. Born
There is also the small, hornless and
in England, Bidwell joined his
short-fleeced Southdown, originally from
brother on a trip to Sydney in 1841. Two years later he headed for New
Zealand with 1600 sheep, some of which
England, they are raised for wool and meat with a white face and legs. Charles’s brother, John, settled in New
he sold to Nelson and Port Nicholson; he
South Wales but made several visits to
drove the rest of the flock, of around 350,
New Zealand. He also notched up some
into the southern Wairarapa valley.
notable achievements while he was
At the last count there were about 27.4
there: he was the first European to climb
million domesticated sheep of various
Mt Ngauruhoe; and he made the first
breeds ensconced in New Zealand’s Rich
collection of New Zealand alpine plants.
Pasturelands, which represents roughly 5 sheep for every person. The lush farms
The sheep farming pioneer, Charles, died in New Zealand in 1884. HAERE MAI NEW ZEALAND
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LET’S COOK
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HOME HAERE MAI NEW ZEALAND
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n 1879, Thomas John Edmonds, arrived in Lyttelton, located outside of Christchurch on New Zealand’s South Island. After identifying a demand for good
baking powder, he began perfecting and selling his own brand called Edmonds. By 1912, they had sold over one million tins of Edmonds Baking Powder. Today, Edmonds is an iconic Kiwi brand, expanding from just baking ingredients to a wide range of products including flour, cake mixes, mayonnaises and salad dressings. However, the Edmonds brand still stands for Kiwi homestyle cooking and baking. You’ll often find the Edmonds Cookery Book in a Kiwi household with over 3 million copies sold. We’ve put together two of our favourite Edmonds recipes for you to enjoy creating at home.
STYLE
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LET’S COOK
SHEPHERD’S PIE Shepherd’s Pie is made with lamb and Cottage Pie with beef. Both were originally ways of using up leftover roast meat by chopping it finely, mixing with stock or gravy and reheating with a good layer of mashed potato on the top. You can also make either pie from minced raw meat.
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FILLING
TOPPING
1 Tbsp oil
3 potatoes, chopped
1 onion, chopped
50g butter
500g lean lamb or beef mince
1 Tbsp finely chopped onion
2 Tbsp plain flour
salt and black pepper
1 Tbsp tomato purée
½ cup grated tasty cheese
¾ cup beef stock 1 Tbsp chutney or relish
METHOD 1. Put the oil and onion in a large saucepan and cook very gently, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and tender - about 10 minutes. 2. Add the mince and cook until just browned, stirring constantly. Add the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring, then add the tomato purée, stock and chutney or relish. 3. Bring to a simmer and cook gently for 15 - 20 minutes. 4. Cook the potatoes in boiling, salted water until tender, then drain and return to the pan. Heat gently to remove excess moisture, shaking the pan. 5. Preheat the oven to 190ºC. 6. Mash the potato with the butter, onion, salt and pepper and half of the grated cheese. Beat until smooth and creamy. 7. Put the mince into a pie dish and top with the mashed potato. Sprinkle with the remaining grated cheese. 8. Bake for 20 minutes or until the top is crisp and golden. 9. Serve with a fine NZ Pinot Noir. HAERE MAI NEW ZEALAND
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LET’S COOK
BREAD AND BUTTER PUDDING Originating in the UK, Bread and Butter Pudding has become a family favourite in many households. It’s a great way to use up leftover or stale bread and by soaking it, the bread becomes enriched with delicious flavour.
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INGREDIENTS
METHOD
2 Tbsp butter, softened
1. Butter the slices of bread and cut them
6 – 8 thick slices stale bread
into triangles.
2 Tbsp currants
2. Arrange the slices in layers in an
¼ cup sugar 2 tsp finely grated lemon zest 4 eggs 2 cups full-cream milk Icing sugar
ovenproof dish interspersed with the currants, sugar and lemon zest. 3. Beat the eggs and milk together and pour over the bread. Set aside for about 30 minutes, pushing the bread back down into the milk occasionally. 4. Preheat the oven to 180˚C. 5. Put the dish into a roasting pan filled with hot water and bake for about 45 minutes or until golden and set. Serve dusted with icing sugar. VA R I A T I O N Try spreading the bread with jam, add chocolate chips or use slices of stale brioche or raisin bread.
TURN LEFTOVER BREAD INTO CAKE - MAKE THIS BREAD AND BUTTER PUDDING.
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THE ICONIC KIWI TEA TOWEL T ea Towels are more than a piece of cloth used to dry dishes. Particularly
SOUVENIR ICONZ
Each tea towel showcased in this feature belongs to a Grand Pacific Tours team member. They cannot holiday in New Zealand without hunting down a new design to add to their collection.
popular souvenir. Richard Till (pictured) is a famous Kiwi
in the 50s and 60s, before the
chef also known for his collection of over
introduction of automatic dishwashers,
300 tea towels. He regularly appeared on
holiday makers would
the popular television
bring home tea towels
show Kiwi Kitchen with
as a souvenir to remind
a different tea towel
them of the places
always draped over his
they visited.
shoulder.
The options are
Interest in his
endless with patterns,
collection grew and
colours and jokes
he wrote a book titled
galore. Other benefits
Every Tea Towel Tells
are that they don't take
a Story. In 2016, an
up much room in a
exhibition by the same
suitcase and are a very
name was held in
practical gift. This tradition is prestigious in
Rotorua honoring the popular pastime of
New Zealand and the Kiwi tea towel is a
collecting themed tea towels. HAERE MAI NEW ZEALAND
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Grand Pacific Tours are a New Zealand Coach Holiday Specialist. For more than 24 years, we have been providing fully inclusive, escorted coach tours for over 50s or those preferring a low impact itinerary. Our tours are full of authentic innovative and educational experiences.
When you’re ready to book, contact First Class Holidays on 0161 888 5630.
NEW ZEALAND
COACH HOLIDAY SPECIALIST
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HAERE MAI NEW ZEALAND
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ha·e·re·mai Maori welcome
COME OVER
C O N TA C T U S
Online fcholidays.com Tel 0161 888 5630 Email enquiries@fcholidays.com